The all-season convertible: 2009 Saab 9-3

Cars

By Tom Keane, Motor Matters

Last update: October 15, 2008 - 2:26 PM

Saab's 2009 version of the 9-3 convertible can drive you through the fall and into spring.

The 9-3 convertible's eye-catching appeal is drawn from the highly praised Aero X Concept car. With the top up or down, the 2009 Saab 9-3 has distinctive aerodynamic styling cues that make the four-seater look like it's slicing the wind. The 9-3 is also built in sedan and wagon models.

My 9-3 tester featured a 2.0-liter High Output turbocharged four-cylinder engine coupled to a six-speed manual transmission. Horsepower ratings are set at 210 at 5,500 rpms. The turbocharged I-4 has fuel ratings of 18/24 mpg.

Part of the enjoyment is shifting through the six-speed manual transmission. Each move of the gearshift lever is precise. Aided by its hearty torque, the convertible moves from a standing stop in a blink of an eye.

By simply holding down on a switch, the soft top folds neatly into a rear deck compartment. Push upward on that same switch and the compartment opens, the top comes up overhead and locks itself in place. It takes all of about 20 seconds.

The Saab 9-3 offers a lot more than just a convertible top for fair-weather driving. I would feel as comfortable in the Saab 9-3 convertible year-round as I would with any other front-wheel-drive sedan.

The 2009 Saab 9-3 is offered with comfort features that make it enjoyable to drive during the colder months. The 9-3 has dual-zone automatic climate control, heated sideview mirrors, high-pressure headlamp washers, a multi-function car computer and 150-watt AM/FM sound system with XM Satellite radio. Naturally, it has cruise control, power door locks and windows with front express down.

The passenger-side outside mirror has a great Wide-Angle safety feature. In addition to the power door locks the car also has a lockable glove box. The adjustable steering wheel is leather-wrapped and has controls for the audio system. The driver's seat has eight-way controls and the center armrest contains a 12-volt system. The two-passenger rear seats are reasonably comfortable. And the 9-3 trunk has a decent amount of storage space.

Regarding safety equipment, the 9-3 has Electronic Stability Control, DynaCage with active rollover protection, side-impact airbags, active head restraints on the front seats, anti-lock brakes and traction control.

EPA fuel economy:

City: 18, Highway: 24

Base MSRP:

$39,590 (as tested, $45,680)

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